Automotive Wiring Diagram & Symbols

Basic Automotive Components and Functions

• Relay: Acts as a remote switch, enabling control of larger loads with smaller signals.
• Fuse: Provides circuit protection, preventing damage by breaking the circuit when current exceeds safe levels.
• PCI Bus: Facilitates communication between different electronic modules in the vehicle.

Wiring and Color Codes

• Wire Color Black with Red Stripe: Specific color coding used for identification in automotive wiring.
• Wire Color Dark Blue with Violet Stripe: Another identification color code used in wiring systems.

Symbols and Indicators in Diagrams

• Dashed Line Around Component: Indicates that the entire component is not fully depicted in the diagram, simplifying representation.
• 4 Wires to Fuel Pump Module: Specifies the number of wires connected to this essential component.

Electrical Power and Battery

• 12.6 Volt Automotive Battery: Supplies crucial electrical power to the vehicle's electrical systems.

Switching Mechanisms

• Switch: Device that opens and closes to control electrical loads, facilitating operation of components.
• Control Side of Relay: Typically managed by vehicle's computer for precise control over connected components.
• Switch Side of Relay: Responsible for turning various loads like fan motors, fuel pumps, and horns on and off.

Grounding and Electrical Flow

• Ground: Essential for providing a return path for current flow back to the battery, ensuring circuit completion.
• Voltage: Represents the electrical "pressure" that drives current through the circuit.
• Current Flow: Measured in amperage, representing the amount of electricity flowing through the circuit.

Horn and Alerts

• Horn: Emits a loud sound for signaling other drivers and is often used for safety or attention.

Fuse Ratings and Conditions

• Good Fuse: Indicates that the fuse is functioning properly and is capable of protecting the circuit.
• Blown Fuse: Occurs when a fuse is compromised due to excessive amperage, needing replacement.
• Fuse Ratings:
  • 10 Amp Fuse: Allows up to 10 amps of current.
  • 15 Amp Fuse: Permits current flow up to 15 amps.
  • 20 Amp Fuse: Can handle currents up to 20 amps.

Electrical Concepts

• Amperage: Refers to the measure of electric current in a circuit.
• Ohm: Represents the resistance encountered by current flow within a circuit.